There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked sweet potato cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. The moment those warm, pillowy-soft rolls exit the oven, with their golden crust and gooey, spiced filling, you know you’re in for a treat that feels like a cozy embrace. I first discovered this delightful recipe while searching for a way to make my weekend mornings a little more special—and believe me, it has become a cherished staple in my home.
These vegan sweet potato cinnamon rolls not only offer a unique twist on the classic favorite but also pack a nutritious punch. The natural sweetness from the sweet potatoes makes them an extraordinary breakfast or dessert option that pleases the palate without the guilt. Plus, with my foolproof, step-by-step instructions, you’ll find that baking these heavenly rolls is easier than you think. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure that’s bound to bring warmth and joy to your table!
Why are Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: There’s nothing like the warm scent of freshly baked rolls filling your kitchen.
Nutritious Twist: Made with sweet potatoes, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients.
Vegan Friendly: A delightful treat everyone can enjoy, regardless of diet.
Easy Steps: My foolproof instructions make it simple for bakers of all skill levels.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave comfort food!
Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls will impress family and friends at brunch gatherings.
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Mashed Sweet Potato – Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the dough; can be substituted with pumpkin puree if needed.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect structure; more may be needed if the dough feels sticky.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling beautifully; try coconut sugar for a less-refined option.
- Vegetable or Avocado Oil – Offers moisture and richness; melted coconut oil works as a great substitute.
- Instant Yeast – Leavens the dough right away without activation; switch to active dry yeast which requires activation.
- Salt, Baking Powder, and Baking Soda – Enhances the flavor and helps the dough rise perfectly.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Margarine or Butter (melted) – Introduces fantastic flavor to the filling; use vegan butter for a fully vegan treat.
- Brown Sugar (for filling) – Sweetens the cinnamon filling for that delightful taste.
- Cinnamon and Ground Spices (Cloves, Nutmeg) – Infuses the filling with warmth and comforting depth.
For the Icing
- Cream Cheese (for icing) – Adds creaminess and tanginess; vegan options are available.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the icing beautifully; you can substitute powdered erythritol for a low-sugar alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of the icing for a delightful finish.
These Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls showcase flavor and comfort, making them a must-bake recipe!
How to Make Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
- Mash Sweet Potato: Boil peeled and diced sweet potatoes until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth—this adds natural sweetness to your rolls.
- Make Dough: Combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, brown sugar, oil, yeast, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl or mixer. Knead until smooth, about 5 minutes with a mixer or 10 minutes by hand.
- Let Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise until doubled in size. This usually takes about 1.5 hours in a warm area or refrigerate overnight for convenience.
- Prepare Filling: Mix melted margarine, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Roll dough into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly across it.
- Roll & Slice: Roll the dough tightly into a cylinder from the long edge. Use a piece of dental floss to slice the rolled dough into 12 equal rolls.
- Let Rolls Rise: Place each roll in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let rest while you preheat the oven to 350°F. This will take about 30-60 minutes.
- Bake: Remove the cover and bake rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Make Icing: In a separate bowl, beat together the icing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the icing generously over the warm rolls. Enjoy every sweet, gooey bite!
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
- Well-Drained Sweet Potatoes: Ensure your sweet potatoes are fully drained to avoid a sticky dough that won’t hold its shape.
- Check Your Yeast: If the dough doesn’t rise, confirm your yeast is fresh by mixing it with warm water and sugar; look for bubbles after a few minutes.
- Knead with Care: Knead the dough for about 5 minutes with a stand mixer or 10 minutes by hand for the best texture in your sweet potato cinnamon rolls.
- Allow for Rising Time: Patience is key! Letting the dough rise properly ensures fluffy rolls, so don’t rush this step.
- Freezing Tips: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unbaked rolls. Remember to thaw overnight in the fridge and allow them to rise before baking for perfect results.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions to make the dough, then after kneading, place it in a greased bowl and refrigerate overnight. The filling can also be made the night before—just mix it together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, spread on the filling, and let the rolls rise while your oven preheats (about 30-60 minutes). You’ll have warm, gooey rolls that are just as delightful as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls?
These delicious rolls will transform any morning into a festive breakfast celebration!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the rolls.
- Chickpea Fried Eggs: These savory, protein-packed bites complement the sweet rolls perfectly, creating an energizing and satisfying breakfast.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of pure maple syrup enhances the sweet potato cinnamon rolls’ delicious cinnamon flavor, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Coffee or Tea: The comforting warmth of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully, creating a cozy atmosphere for your breakfast table.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fresh berries, this creamy addition brings a lovely crunch and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the rolls.
- Nut Butter Spread: Serve almond or peanut butter on the side; it adds a creamy, nutty element that pairs deliciously with the soft sweetness of the rolls.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a delightful dessert experience, add a dollop of vegan whipped cream to take your sweet potato cinnamon rolls to the next level of indulgence.
- Herbal Infused Lemonade: A refreshing drink that combines herbal notes with citrusy brightness, perfect for a unique breakfast beverage to cleanse the palate.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious option offers crunch and creaminess, enhancing the breakfast experience while contributing to a balanced meal.
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Get ready to play with flavors and textures! These ideas will make your sweet potato cinnamon rolls even more exciting.
- Pumpkin Swap: Replace sweet potatoes with pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. This will give your rolls a spicy, autumnal flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. You’ll have all the deliciousness without the gluten!
- Spice It Up: Add ground ginger or cardamom to your filling for an extra layer of warmth. The result will be truly aromatic!
- Nutty Goodness: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. A little texture adds wonderful contrast to the softness of the rolls.
- Berry Delight: Layer in some fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a burst of fruity flavor with a tangy twist. They pair beautifully with sweet potatoes!
- Zesty Icing: Mix in a splash of citrus zest—like orange or lemon—into your icing for a refreshing lift that brightens every bite.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips into the dough for a decadent touch. Chocolate and sweet potatoes? A match made in heaven!
- Maple Simplification: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup in the filling for a deeper, richer sweetness. It will create a lovely caramelized effect during baking!
Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature: Keep the rolls covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure to wrap them tightly to maintain moisture and freshness.
- Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
- Freezer: Freeze baked sweet potato cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: For perfectly warm rolls, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm and gooey.
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes?
Look for sweet potatoes that are firm and free from dark spots or blemishes. A smooth, unwrinkled skin indicates freshness. If using canned sweet potato puree, choose varieties that contain no added sugars or preservatives.
What is the best way to store sweet potato cinnamon rolls?
For room temperature storage, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 2 days. If you prefer refrigeration, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that soft texture.
Can I freeze sweet potato cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, place baked rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow to rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough fails to rise, the most common issue is the yeast. First, check the yeast’s freshness by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar; if bubbles form after about 5-10 minutes, it’s active. If not, consider starting over with fresh yeast, and always ensure your water isn’t too hot or too cold, as this can affect yeast activation.
Are these rolls safe for pets?
While sweet potatoes are safe for dogs in moderation, the icing and spices are not pet-friendly. Keep the rolls away from your furry friends, and enjoy them yourself! Additionally, individuals with nut allergies should check labels for any hidden allergens in ingredients like margarine or butter substitutes.
Can I customize the spices in the filling?
The more the merrier! Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom to elevate the flavor profile of your sweet potato cinnamon rolls. You can also adjust the sweetness level to your taste by using less sugar or choosing a sugar alternative like coconut sugar.
Sweet Potato Cinnamon Rolls That Will Change Your Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil peeled and diced sweet potatoes until fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and mash until smooth.
- Combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, brown sugar, oil, yeast, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl or mixer. Knead until smooth, about 5 minutes with a mixer or 10 minutes by hand.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1.5 hours in a warm area or refrigerate overnight for convenience.
- Mix melted margarine, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Roll dough into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly across it.
- Roll the dough tightly into a cylinder from the long edge. Use a piece of dental floss to slice the rolled dough into 12 equal rolls.
- Place each roll in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let rest while you preheat the oven to 350°F, about 30-60 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the icing ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the icing generously over the warm rolls.